Calgary Zoo

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When one thinks of the Calgary Zoo, the first thing that comes to mind are the elephants, tiger and zebras. Equally important and notable is the landscape.

From traditional gardens to preserved wetlands, we invite you to discover life at the Calgary Zoo!

Discover the Gardens at the Calgary Zoo.....

The Dorothy Harvie Garden located in the centre of St. George's Island boasts a collection of 4000+ ornamental plant species hardy to the unique growing conditions of Calgary.

One of our goals is to continue trialing various plant species for suitability in Calgary's climate and provide a valuable resource of information and inspiration for gardeners in the chinook zone.

Creative displays of tulips in spring and annuals in summer, add to a spectacular viewing oasis of perennial, shrub and tree collections. Evergreens, colourful bark, texture and rock-work provide winter interest.

Collections include: astilbe, birch, clematis, delphinium, dwarf conifers, hemerocallis, heuchera, hosta, iris, juniper, lilac, lily, malus, peony, phlox, pine, poppy, potentilla, primula, rose, spirea, spruce, viburnum.

Specialty gardens: alpine garden, water conservation garden, shade garden, woodland garden, water garden, perennial trial garden.

The Conservatory, found in the middle of the Dorothy Harvie Garden, provides a year-round horticultural showcase of exotic tropical plants and towering palms, complete with a roaring waterfall, pools of goldfish, and free-flying birds.

Also housed under the Conservatory structure are three houses of distinct environments.

The Arid Garden is composed of a collection of Old World and New World cactus and succulents, in a noticeably hot and dry climate.

The Rainforest Garden focuses on the hot and humid, threatened tropical rainforests of the world. Dozens of species of orchids, bromeliads and ferns cover soil, rocks and trees'.

The Butterfly Garden displays free-flying exotic butterflies and visitors can witness their fascinating life cycle and dependence on specific plants.

At various times of the year you may see eggs, caterpillars, pupae, and adult butterflies on lantana, citrus or passiflora in this warm and humid habitat.

Habitat Exhibits are created to house animals in their most natural setting as possible. Enclosures are designed with plant material that is indigenous to the part of the world to which each animal is native or similar plants are chosen to mimic the appearance of those native plant species.

The Canadian Wilds is a recreation of our nation's own native flora and fauna and when completed will be the largest natural habitat display in Canada. The visitor is immersed into a habitat of plants and animals where sights, smells, and sounds contribute to the overall experience.

Three of five phases have been completed to date, including the parkland habitat and pastures of the Aspen Woodlands; the simulated rock faces, scree slopes, and meadows of the hardy Rocky Mountains, which also features a region of montane forests and a unique forest burn exhibit; and the Northern Forest featuring bogs and boreal forests.

Events, Programs and Services

Bloomfest

An annual spring garden show that promises to delight green thumbs and couch gardeners alike.

A setting for our local horticulture community to celebrate gardens and gardening, includes demonstrations, lectures, tours, kids areas and general discussion of peoples passion for growing things.

Bloomin' Tuesdays

An opportunity for visitors to talk to or ask questions about our gardens or yours, starting the first Tuesday after May Long Weekend and ending the Tuesday following Labour Day, from 10:30am to 1:00pm. Located in the Dorothy Harvie Gardens.

A short list of Tried and True' plants from the Botanical Gardens at the Calgary Zoo, for the Home gardener: